FIA President Open to 12th F1 Team, Eyes Chinese Prospect

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem has indicated openness to a 12th Formula 1 team, potentially from China, stating that "talks" have occurred.

Following the approval of Cadillac's entry, which will bring the grid to 11 teams, Ben Sulayem suggested that a process for a 12th team could be initiated soon. He believes F1 needs more teams than additional races, citing feedback from drivers.

More Teams Than Races

"I still feel that we need more teams [rather] than more races," Ben Sulayem stated. "The drivers are coming to me and saying, ‘Please, no more races’."

He referenced the recent Expression of Interest (EOI) process, emphasizing that decisions are based on due process and competency, regardless of the applicant's origin. Ben Sulayem expressed confidence that a Chinese manufacturer, given the country's automotive growth, would be welcomed by F1 management (FOM) if they met the criteria.

"If there is a team from China, let’s say, and FOM approved it, and I am 100 per cent they will approve it, wouldn’t it make more money with China coming in? I believe, yes," he said.

Value of a New Entry

Ben Sulayem acknowledged concerns about prize money dilution, which led to Cadillac's $450 million anti-dilution fee. However, he argued that a Chinese entry could significantly boost F1's value, particularly in the Asian market.

"Do we have to fill up [the grid] with a 12th team for the sake of filling up [the grid] with a 12th team? No. It will be the right team," he emphasized. The focus is on adding value and ensuring the longevity of the championship, rather than simply expanding the grid.

"For us, the [12th] team has to add value to sustaining the business of Formula 1, and the business of Formula 1 is not about the income, it’s about the longevity of the championship itself."